Blanton Foundation blood drive is Dec. 16

Dec 04, 2012

The Tye Blanton Foundation will host a blood drive for the American Red Cross from noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec.16, at Canton Central United Methodist Church, 34 Church St. (across from the Lamp Factory). The community is encouraged to participate to continue efforts in memory of Trooper Shawn Blanton and his infant son, Tye.

Call 550-6853 to schedule an appointment time. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome as well.

The Red Cross does not need blood — patients do. According to the American Red Cross, every two seconds someone in America receives a blood transfusion. More than 5 million patients will need blood this year. More than 1 million new people are diagnosed with cancer each year. Many of them will need blood, sometimes daily, throughout their chemotherapy treatment. A single car accident victim may require as many as 100 pints of blood.

Many babies born prematurely may also be in need of blood transfusions. While we may be aware of this information, we must also be aware that less than 38 percent of the U.S. population is eligible to donate blood. Blood cannot be manufactured — it can only come from generous donors.

The Tye Blanton Foundation is the only nonprofit in Western North Carolina created just for premature babies. TBF is honored to give back to the community by once again working with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive.

For information or to make a donation to TBF, visit Facebook, email tyeblantonfoundation@yahoo.com or mail donations to P.O. Box 18, Waynesville, NC 28786.